For more information:

Malawi

Naomi and her mother

Photo by Jodi McGill

Do not withhold good from those who need it, when you have the ability to help. (Prov. 3:27 NET)

Naomi is an 18-year-old, living and struggling in northern Malawi. She was selected for a scholarship from the Secondary School Fund of the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian–Synod of Livingstonia, which is supported by PC(USA) members and congregations. This is her story, which eloquently states the struggle many youth face and provides encouragement for those in similar situations.

“My name is Naomi. My father died when I was a year old, and our property was taken from us by my father’s relatives. I started primary school, but I took school for granted. But when I realized that school was the only way to help my family out of our impoverished condition, I started working very hard. I was selected for secondary school. I knew it was going to be hard for Mom to pay school fees with her business of selling fish. In looking for school fees, she started selling things from our house. We started seeking help. Luckily enough, the Synod of Livingstonia offered assistance.

“I can now proudly let the whole world know that I have my Malawi Secondary Certificate of Education.

“When I finish my dream of becoming a chartered accountant, I wish to reach out and touch my fellow vulnerable children so that they can fulfill their dreams too. I will forever be grateful to the Synod of Livingstonia for their support. If not for them, who would I have been?”